Yukino Yasuda
I used to work as a secretary in Japan, where I'm from, and wished to improve and expand my skills in the business world. I first came to the United States as an International student in 1998, and studied at Lake Washington Technical College (LWTC) for two quarters. Following a trip back to Japan, I returned in 2003 to complete my studies. LWTC was the perfect place for me to attend college for many reasons.
Program. The tuition was affordable, lower than other colleges, and the courses were of high quality.
I constantly struggle with the English, as English is my second language. However, the instructors and students have been most patient and understanding. Since the faculty and my classmates come from various backgrounds, the diverse nature of the LWTC campus creates a helpful, caring atmosphere in which to study and work.
I wish to recognize my mentor, Marie Willsey. Marie not only helped me with my studies, but also assisted in my job search. My Accounting faculty advisor, Andrea Deebach, inspired me in the art of accounting. Judi Lemon, my Administrative Assistant faculty advisor, has supported me as well. And, I have Michael Lake, my English 101 instructor, and Jane Reinhardt, my public speaking instructor, to thank for their ever-present encouragement of my English.
I've been employed by LWTC in a cooperative work experience for school credit in the Admissions & Registration office. I created and translated brochures in Japanese, was responsible for data entry, participated in a college online recruitment fair, and served as an Administrative Assistant for the office. In March 2005, I landed an internship with the company TEC Group Inc. as Accounting and Business Assistant.
My goal is to gain as much work experience as possible, while I strive to become an Executive Secretary/Administrative Assistant.
But, first I graduate in June 2005, with an Administrative Assistant Degree and my Accounting Certificate in hand, along with President's List and Dean's List honors.
From Japan to LWTC! I made the right move.
Dina Garcia
At age 14, I arrived in the United States from the small town of Retalhuleu in Guatemala, with my mother, brother, and sister. As a single parent, my mother felt we'd all benefit from a better life in North America, far from the poor conditions in Guatemala. I spoke no English but enrolled in high school anyway. My constant struggle with the language barrier, led me to quit school after only one year. At the time, I felt working and earning my own money would be more satisfying. It wasn't until two years later, that a former high school teacher told me about Lake Washington Technical Academy saying, "This is a great opportunity for you. You do not have to pay for your classes, you can learn more English, and earn your high school diploma." Her advice marked the beginning of my success as an Accounting student at the Academy.
I'm currently enrolled in Introduction to Accounting, Business Calculator Applications, Business Computer Applications, and Psychology. These classes will prepare me for job opportunities in my selected field. However, I find Business Computer Applications most challenging since I've never had any experience working with computers, nor have I ever taken a computer class.
Fortunately for me, the faculty at the Academy has guided me each step along the way. Instructors are there for any tutoring help I might seek, and advisors direct me to the required classes I need to complete my Accounting major. I'm most proud to report that I'm on the Dean's List.
Graduating either Winter or Spring quarter of 2005, now looks like a real possibility. Of course, this will be decided on how many classes I take per quarter. It's amazing that I can train for a career and earn a high school diploma at the same time, plus earn college credits for my two-year college technical degree.
I have three ambitious goals following graduation...(1) obtain challenging and rewarding employment, (2) earn and save enough money to buy my own home, and (3) start a family. And, if I must return to college, I gladly will.
